T-Mobile debuts low-cost 4G Android smartphone -- no contract required
Three weeks after T-Mobile introduced a cheap no-contract 4G data plan through Walmart, the carrier on Wednesday revealed the promised 4G-capable phone to sell at the retailer: the Samsung Exhibit II 4G. The phone runs Android 2.3 "Gingerbread", and is exclusive to Walmart starting October 27 before being available nationally November 2.
The main attraction to the Exhibit II is T-Mobile's aggressive pricing. Consumers can purchase the device with no commitment for $199.99, and those choosing to add a two-year service plan would be able to pick up the phone for $79.99, not including the $50 mail-in rebate offered by the carrier.
Considering that most no-contract smart devices will set you back $600 or more, the Exhibit II certainly is a bargain.
As far as specs go, the Exhibit II is clearly not setting the world on fire. That said, for the price it's a worthy mid-range smartphone: 1GHz Snapdragon processor powers the phone, which is HSPA+ 21Mbps capable. A 3.7-inch WVGA TFT screen graces the front where there is a forward-facing camera for video conferencing, and a 3-megapixel camera on the back is included.
There is Wireless-N support, Bluetooth 3.0, Swype text entry, and a microSD slot. T-Mobile will include a 4GB card, but the Exhibit supports capacities up to 32GB.
"The Samsung Exhibit II 4G is the perfect device for consumers desiring a smartphone with robust 4G entertainment and Web browsing experiences – at a price they can afford", product management chief Andrew Morrison says.
It is not known whether there are any plans for Samsung or T-Mobile to offer Exhibit users an upgrade to Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich", launched earlier this month. It's unlikely though, considering the somewhat average specs of the device.
Additional Specs
Size: 4.54 x 2.35 x 0.45 inches
Weight: 4.1 ounces
Included battery: 1500 mAh Li-ion
Talk time: Up to 5.5 hours
Standby time: Up to 15 days
Band (frequency): 850 MHz;900 MHz;1800 MHz;1900 MHz;UMTS: Band IV (1700/2100);UMTS: Band V (850);Band II (1900)
Hearing Aid Compatibility: M3 & T3